Media

TRP scam: ED may file first chargesheet this month

The Enforcement Directorate could file its first chargesheet in the TRP scam case this month, the Indian Express reported on Monday, quoting unnamed sources. The agency is investigating the Republic Media Network, India Today Group, News Nation, and four entertainment channels for allegedly paying bribes to rig TRPs, thereby growing advertising revenues.

The chargesheet is expected to detail the alleged wrongdoings of former executives of Broadcast Audience Research Council, Hansa Research Group, and four relationship managers who allegedly helped channels manipulate TRPs.

The Mumbai police have arrested 13 people in connection with the scam, including Partho Dasgupta, former chief executive officer of BARC, who, among other alleged wrongdoings, plotted with Republic TV head Arnab Goswami to manipulate TRPs. The arrested people have been charged with cheating, criminal conspiracy, and destruction of evidence.

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The Mumbai police have alleged that a few media houses bribed some families in whose homes meters to measure television ratings had been installed to tune into a particular channel.

The TRP scam is the consequence of a broken news model. Watch this Newslaundry explainer to see how.

Also Read: Explained: What's the 'TRP scam' and how was it done

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